Site Design and Human Heat Burden

A Case Study in Pacoima, California
An example of courtyard shade and a nature-based outdoor learning environment at Esperanza Elementary School, Los Angeles.V. Kelly Turner / Luskin Center for Innovation

California’s K-12 education system is under-prepared for rising temperatures

Heat makes it harder for students to learn and for teachers to teach. Previous research supported by the UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation quantified how these effects exacerbate educational and racial inequalities.
At Creekside Elementary in Tassajara, CA, the play structure is partially protected from the sun.Brian Shamblen / Flickr

Protecting Californians with Heat-Resilient Schools

Guidance for an Effective State Strategy
Aerial view above Reynier Village neighborhood in West Los Angeles, CaliforniaThomas De Wever / iStock

UCLA researchers study impacts of streets on urban heat

New research finds shade, such as from trees, to be the most effective strategy to cool hot city streets

Celebrating our impact in 2022

Meet our new faculty director and explore our actionable research for a sustainable future in our new Impact Report
Edward Rendon Park, Austin. Photo by Cesar Garza / Flickr

Federal park funding reaches underserved communities — but more can be done

Research from UCLA and The Wilderness Society finds that with a few key improvements, federal park funds can bring outdoor recreation to more communities
infrared vision view of playground

Urban Heat and Cool Design Facts

Collaborators celebrate the unveiling of a new bus shelter in Oasis, California

New shade shelter prototype aims to keep transit riders cool

Community-driven research strives to prevent heat-related illnesses
Los Angeles skyline in pink

Heat waves aren’t going anywhere. Here’s how we can prepare.

UCLA’s V. Kelly Turner takes a multi-pronged approach that emphasizes equitable solutions to this dangerous problem
An air conditioning unit outside of an apartment window, covered in flowers

Protecting Californians With Heat-Resilient Homes

Guidance for an Equitable and Effective State Strategy